Economy Minister: EU in 'losing position' without Turkey

Turkish Minister of Economy Zafer Caglayan: "Today, an European Union in which Turkey does not take part will be in a losing position."

Diplomacy

08 Kasım 2013 Cuma 09:13

World Bulletin / News Desk

Turkish Minister of Economy Zafer Caglayan said economic growth rate of Turkey was higher than that of many countries of European Union (EU), adding "Today, an European Union in which Turkey does not take part will be in a losing position."

The minister attended the closing session of Turkey- Sweden Business Forum with Swedish Finance Minister Anders Borg which was held by Turkish and Swedish businessmen in Stockholm.

Speaking at the meeting, Caglayan mentioned about developments in Turkish economy.

The minister criticized the visa application of EU to Turkish businessmen, saying there was an inequity against Turkish citizens in visa applications.

In last four years, about five million people in EU lost their jobs and at the same period over six million people had jobs in Turkey. We should compare Turkey's economy with that of Europe, said the minister.

Caglayan called on the Swedish businessmen to launch investments in Turkey.

On the other hand, the Swedish Finance Minister praised Turkish economy giving examples of growth rates in Turkey.

The minister also added Sweden supported the membership of Turkey in the EU.